‘Immense benefits’ the products of ‘wise government

"Immense benefits" now enjoyed by the country would not have come about without wise government and the free enterprise system, said Mrs. Margaret Thatcher, M.P. for Finchley, when she opened Biggin Hill Conservative women's section's summer fair at the Women's Institute Hall on Saturday.

Mrs. Thatcher said that in both the Finchley and Orpington constituencies "we are seeing the decline and fall of the Liberals." In both the Conservatives would be satisfied with a 10,000 majority at the General-Election.

As Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Pensions and National Insurance, she said she was the second largest spender for the Government, after the Ministry of Defence. It was only right that having achieved prosperity the nation should look after elderly people.

Mrs. Thatcher, who was accompanied by her 10-year-old daughter, Carol, was welcomed by the women's section chairman, Mrs. C. Bracher.

She was thanked by the prospective Parliamentary candidate, Mr. Norris McWhirter, who said Biggin Hill members had a fine tradition for their contribution to party funds. He was accompanied by Mrs. McWhirter and their four-year-old daughter, Jane. Also present was Mr. D. Saunders, a member of Orpington and the new Bromley Borough Councils.

Matchbox surprises, and a millinery stall with hats made by members were features of the fair. There were also well-stocked stalls, including cakes and plants.

The fair raised £45, slightly less than last year. "I think the bad weather in the afternoon made a big difference," said Mrs. Bracher on Monday.